MG Hector Plus Facelift Review: The SUV Everyone Knows Gets a Quiet Makeover… But Is That Enough in 2025?

In a market where carmakers are constantly chasing dramatic redesigns and futuristic styling, the facelifted MG Hector Plus has taken a surprisingly restrained route. There are no radical changes, no headline-grabbing redesigns, and no revolutionary powertrain updates. Instead, MG Motor has chosen to refine an SUV that already enjoys strong road presence and a loyal customer base.

The result is a familiar yet slightly sharper Hector Plus that continues to focus on what it has always done best — delivering space, comfort, technology, and an imposing SUV stance.

A Design Update You Might Miss at First Glance

The facelift doesn’t dramatically alter the Hector Plus’s appearance, but there are enough visual tweaks to keep it feeling fresh.

The biggest change comes at the front, where the SUV now features a redesigned chrome-finished hexagonal grille replacing the previous mesh-pattern design. The grille remains massive and dominates the front fascia, reinforcing the SUV’s bold identity.

The signature split-headlamp setup remains intact, with sleek LED daytime running lights positioned above and the primary lighting units housed lower in the bumper. Additional chrome detailing on the bumper and a revised lower garnish help give the SUV a slightly more premium appearance.

Viewed from the side, little has changed. The SUV retains its muscular silhouette, although new dual-tone 18-inch alloy wheels provide a touch of freshness.

At the rear, the connected LED tail lamp design continues to stretch across the width of the tailgate. The primary update is a redesigned bumper featuring a larger silver skid-plate-inspired insert that lends a more rugged appearance.

Buyers can also choose from new exterior shades, including Celadon Blue and Pearl White.

A Cabin That Still Feels Like a Premium Lounge

Step inside, and the Hector Plus continues to impress with its spacious and upmarket interior.

The layered dashboard design, soft-touch materials, leatherette upholstery, and dual-tone theme create an environment that feels more premium than many rivals in the segment.

Taking centre stage is the massive 14-inch portrait touchscreen infotainment system, one of the largest displays available in an Indian SUV today. It continues to be a standout feature, although relying heavily on touchscreen controls for various functions may not appeal to everyone.

Other notable highlights include:

• Fully digital 7-inch instrument cluster
• Ambient cabin lighting
• Dual-pane panoramic sunroof
• Ventilated front seats
• Power-adjustable front seats
• Wireless smartphone charging
• Powered tailgate
• PM 2.5 air purifier with AQI display
• Connected car technology with OTA updates

The SUV is available in both six-seat and seven-seat configurations, offering flexibility for different family needs.

While the first two rows offer excellent comfort and generous space, the third row remains best suited for children or short-distance travel.

Technology Remains a Strong Selling Point

One area where the Hector Plus continues to excel is technology.

The SUV comes equipped with an extensive connected-car suite that includes remote vehicle controls, voice commands, vehicle tracking, digital key functionality, and over-the-air software updates.

Features such as automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, proximity locking, push-button start, and remote sunroof operation add to everyday convenience.

For families, multiple USB charging points across all rows ensure passengers stay connected during long journeys.

Performance Focused More on Comfort Than Speed

Powering the Hector Plus is a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 143 bhp and 250 Nm of torque.

Customers can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox and a CVT automatic transmission. The test vehicle reviewed featured the CVT setup.

In city traffic, the engine performs smoothly and predictably. Power delivery is linear, making the SUV easy to drive in everyday conditions. Despite its substantial size, the Hector Plus never feels excessively sluggish around town.

However, the SUV’s relaxed personality becomes more apparent on highways. Quick overtakes require planning, and under hard acceleration, the CVT’s typical rubber-band effect becomes noticeable. The engine can also sound strained when pushed aggressively.

This isn’t an SUV designed for spirited driving. Instead, it encourages a calm, effortless driving style focused on comfort.

Ride Quality Remains a Major Strength

The suspension setup has been tuned primarily for passenger comfort, and it shows.

Broken roads, potholes, and speed breakers are absorbed with ease at lower speeds, delivering a plush ride experience that families will appreciate.

There are some compromises, however. Sharp bumps at moderate speeds can occasionally send noticeable impacts into the cabin, while body roll remains evident during fast cornering.

The steering feels light and effortless in city driving but offers limited feedback, reinforcing the SUV’s comfort-oriented nature.

Verdict: Familiar Formula, Still a Strong Family SUV

The facelifted MG Hector Plus may not introduce dramatic changes, but perhaps it doesn’t need to.

Its commanding road presence, feature-rich cabin, spacious interior, and comfortable ride continue to be its biggest strengths. While fuel efficiency and outright performance aren’t class-leading, the Hector Plus remains a compelling choice for buyers seeking a premium three-row family SUV.

Starting at ₹19.69 lakh (ex-showroom), the Hector Plus continues to offer a lot of SUV for the money. For families prioritising comfort, technology, and space over sporty performance, MG’s flagship SUV still deserves a place on the shortlist.

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